Jakarta:
Ace shuttler Saina Nehwal claimed her first BWF title in two years after three-time world champion Carolina Marin of Spain limped out of the Indonesia Masters final due to a leg injury in Jakarta on Sunday. The London Olympics bronze medallist was trailing 4-10 in the opening game when Marin decided to withdraw from the contest.
"It is an important year for all of us. This was not good at all. She is a tough competitor, she started off well and it is unfortunate what happened today," said Saina, who last won the BWF title 2017 in Malaysia.
It is a creditable performance for the Indian shuttler, who had suffered a shin injury late last year.
"I just came out of injury. I played these events to see how good is this. and I'm happy I could play the semi-finals at Malaysia and final here. Looking forward to get back to shape and play next tournament," Saina said.
"I have been getting injured in the last few years. I always try to come back stronger, there is no secret. I want to thank physios and coaches who are supporting me a lot," she added.
Saina had won a gold medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, a bronze at the Asian Games, besides reaching finals at Denmark, Indonesia Masters and Syed Modi International.
